Several Chatham County nonprofits and businesses are collaborating on a unique new nature interpretive trail that surrounds The Plant, an eco-industrial park on the edge of Pittsboro. Spearheaded by The Chatham County Partnership for Children and Abundance NC, the trail will provide a place for children and adults to be active in nature while learning about key themes of sustainable communities such as local food, renewable energy, the preservation of native plants, wildlife, and natural resources.

The .78 mile long trail is currently under construction. Dozens of local volunteers have contributed to the trail's progress to date, which includes clearing, grading, and the removal of thousands of pounds of trash from the woods. Major donors and funders to date include The Feather Foundation, Luck Stone, Piedmont Biofuels, and HOMS Bio-Herbicides. Trail partners hope to raise an additional $20,000 through additional grants and donations..

The trail takes visitors through woodlands and fields encircling the Plant, an eco-industrial park which hosts a number of sustainable businesses and nonprofits. The trail leads visitors past fields of vegetables and greenhouses farmed by Piedmont Biofarm and Screech Owl Greenhouses, through an orchard owned by local distillery Fair Game Beverage Co., across a creek and alongside a constructed wetland, and through woodlands populated with native specimen trees. Visitors to the trail will also view a working biodiesel plant, a large solar array, herb gardens, and pollinator gardens.

Planned enhancements to the trail include bird habitats and viewable samples of different types of native soils. Labels along the trail will identify features, and QR codes will lead visitors to more in-depth online explanations of the trail's features and themes. Additional online resources created especially for families and teachers are also planned.

Once complete, the trail will be open to the public daily until sundown. It can currently be visited by appointment or during the Plant's free public tours on Sundays at 1pm. For appointments, information, or to make a donation, contact Lexie Wolf, Chatham County Partnership for Children at lexie@chathamkids.org or 919.449.6120, or contact Lyle Estill, Piedmont Biofuels, at lyle@biofuels.coop or 919.200.5549.

No safe time and no safe amount of wine, beer, or hard liquor during pregnancy
by Kathy Hotelling

Twenty years ago I adopted a beautiful, blonde haired, blue eyed four month old infant from Russia; she had intense eye contact, so much so that upon a layover at JFK on our way back to the US, several people stopped us and said “what an adorable child.” Her developmental milestones were delayed, but this was to be expected since she had been premature. Nonetheless, I asked each physician she saw in a wide range of specialties (including a geneticist, four psychiatrists, two gastroenterologists, an endocrinologist, a neuropsychologist, and four neurologists), do you think she has Fetal Alcohol? She was after all, from Russia, a country known to over utilize alcohol. To which I received a shrug of the shoulders or “no.”

Bridges, and Government Agencies -- Structurally Unsound
by Jeff Davidson

Among more than 600,000 bridges in the United States, at least one in ten is structurally deficient and in urgent need of vital repairs. The cost of fixing them is estimated to be $115 billion, or two times the annual sales of the entire U.S. auto market.

Renzo Sereno, an erudite and imaginative thinker, died fifty years ago, leaving behind a manuscript that has now been rescued, cleaned up and published. It still resonates with insight, wit, learning and skepticism. His writing is a kind of bridge between traditional scholarship and modern social science.

Dr. Sereno attempts a new definition of the human situation: we are mammals who are beset by anxiety. We attempt to escape our anxious predicament in endless ways, some of which make us even more anxious. And we are destined to fail.

He focuses his attention on three areas where we, as a species, attempt to “take care of the night” - or cope with our affliction: religion, dream, and magic. His arguments range across numerous cultures and cultural practices, with an eye to the universality of our anxious quests; from Machiavelli, to psychoanalysis, to Obeah (the form of magic he spent much time learning about in Antigua.)

The book is laced with wit. For example, in reference to Vilfredo Pareto: “who so impressed scientists..and find his jargon that of a man intelligent enough to understand the importance of being pretentious by being obscure.” or “Marx defined religion as the opiate of the people; we can define the languages of the social sciences as the bicarbonate of the elite.”

Is our culture any less anxious than it was fifty years ago. I doubt it. Sereno speaks to this in a strikingly contemporary observation: “…another instance of our knowing more of the remedy than of the malady. We are far more familiar with a sleeping tablet than sleep.” Many an Ambien user could relate to this observation.

Sleep, the night and its mysteries - find an astute and compassionate observer in this book.

-- Lou Lipsitz, poet, psychotherapist and Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Global Warming Is Real and Must Be Stopped
by John Graybill

A recent paper issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows that the earth’s land/ocean temperature has increased since 1880 by 1.65 degrees Fahrenheit. 13 of the hottest years have occurred over the past 14 years. Both NOAA and NASA report that 2014 was the hottest year on record. That record will likely be broken this year. The evidence of actual global warming is now indisputable.

Do you enjoy working with children and sharing your love of the outdoors? The Haw River Assembly is seeking volunteers of all ages for the 26th annual Learning Celebration on the Haw River for school children.

This program brings 4th grade children from schools in surrounding counties for day-long field trips outside, into nature. The Assembly’s volunteer guides use nature as the classroom -- no experience needed. They provide training and mentoring. For many children this is their first experience hiking through a forest and along a river. As a guide, you get to watch the joy come to life!

The dates of this year’s program are September 20 - October 9. You can volunteer for a day, or stay for a week. Call 919.542.5790 or visit www.hawriver.org for more information.

BRIEFS

Computer Classes at Chatham Community Library

Chatham Community Library in Pittsboro is offering a series of free computer classes in September and October. The names, dates and times of the classes are listed below, but you can find more information on each class at www.chathamnc.org/index.aspx?page=1688 as well as information on how to register.

The Drop-In Computer Assistance session (Oct. 14) does not require registration. For all other classes, space is limited and you must register in advance if you wish to attend. To register for a class, look for the online registration form at www.chathamnc.org/index.aspx?page=1688. You also may sign up in the library, or send an email to reference@chathamlibraries.org. For more information, call 919.545.8086. All classes take place in the computer lab at Chatham Community Library, 197 NC Hwy 87 N in Pittsboro, on the campus of Central Carolina Community College.

Flu Vaccinations in Chatham County

With flu season fast-approaching, it is important to get vaccinated. Last season, over 200 North Carolinians died from the flu. The best way to protect yourself, your family, your classmates and your co-workers against the flu is to get the annual flu vaccination. With many local options available, including pharmacies and drug stores, getting vaccinated is more convenient than ever.

It is recommended that everyone over the age of 6 months get a flu vaccine. For people who are high risk, the flu can be especially dangerous. This includes people over 65 years old and those with chronic medical conditions. If you are a caregiver or family member of someone who is high risk, it is also very important that you are vaccinated. If you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine, have had Guillain-Barré Syndrome, or are not feeling well, please let your doctor or the person who gives the vaccine know beforehand to determine what is best for you.

Also, remember that personal hygiene habits, such as frequent hand washing with soap, use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, covering coughs and sneezes with tissue or sleeve, and staying home when ill, help to prevent the spread of the flu.

The Chatham County Public Health Department will give the flu vaccine at its Siler City clinic beginning October 1st. In addition, the Department is focusing much of its flu vaccination outreach effort this year on Chatham County residents who are unable to leave their homes to get the flu vaccine. To schedule an appointment at the clinic, or to ask for a home visit for yourself or someone you know who is homebound due to medical or physical disabilities, please contact Bonnie Dukeman at the Chatham County Public Health Department at 919.742.5641.

Most insurance is accepted, and the cost without insurance is $30.00 for the shot. The public health department does not have currently have intranasal vaccine (FluMist) available. For additional information, please visit www.chathamnc.org/flu.

Red Clay Ramblers at Fearrington Barn

Fearrington Cares is having a celebration supper and concert at the Fearrington Barn on October 1st at 6 p.m. to celebrate its 25th anniversary of serving the Fearrington community.

Supper starts at 6 p.m. with a cash bar, and the Red Clay Ramblers concert starts at 7:30. Tickets are $45/pp for supper and the concert. Quantities are limited, so buy yours today. Mail your check, made out to Fearrington Cares, to 2020 Fearrington Post, Pittsboro, NC 27312 , or stop by the Fearrington Cares Center in Fearrington Village on Wednesday mornings to purchase your ticket.

Volunteer for Communities In Schools of Chatham County

Can you give one hour a week to encourage, support, tutor a young person in Chatham County? Communities In Schools of Chatham County will host a volunteer orientation/training on Thursday, October 1, 2015 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Pittsboro Presbyterian Church, 95 East St., Pittsboro. Come learn how one hour can impact the life of a young person! There are several volunteer opportunities available: tutor, mentor, lunch buddy, Community Service Guide, and Health & Wellness activity leader. For more information contact Shirille Lee, Mentoring Program Manager, at 919.663.0116 x401 or shirille@cischatham.org.

PHSC seeking volunteers to teach crochet

Piedmont Health SeniorCare is “A Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly” located in Pittsboro. Within their adult day health program they provide meaningful activities that improve overall quality of life for seniors. They are seeking volunteers to come be a part of their activities by teaching crocheting. In particular, they are seeking volunteers that may be interested in leading a small group or working with individuals 1:1, or even just coming in for a visit.

October is the National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Everyone is invited to participate in Chatham County’s 1st Annual 5K Run/Walk No to Domestic Violence on Saturday, Oct. 3rd, 2015, at 8 a.m. The event is a fundraising for Tokens of Care, which delivers hope to abused and neglected women and children by delivering gifts to the ones at the Chatham County shelter. For details about the event please visit: http://www.tokensofcare.org/no-to-domestic-violence--5k-run---walk.html Please email maryallen@tokensofcare.org if you would like to volunteer.

1st Top Shelf Fishin’ Festival on Jordan Lake Coming in October

Operation North State, one of North Carolina's most successful and fastest growing military support services organizations will be hosting the 1st Annual Top Shelf Fishin' Festival on Jordan Lake, Saturday -- October 3. Operation North State, an all-volunteer organization based in Winston-Salem with volunteers located throughout the state, is in its third season of hosting wounded warriors and disabled veterans to a great day of fishing and fellowship utilizing its Top Shelf Fishin' Festivals. FYI: Fishin' Festivals venues for 2016 are Lake Norman, Badin Lake, Randleman Lake (Richard Petty), New Bern, Jordan Lake and Ocean Crest Pier at Oak Island.

In 2013, ONS hosted one Fishin' Festival; it has since expanded to six Festivals spread among six different venues. Fifty wounded warriors and disabled veterans will be attending and working with fifty of the area's best bass and crappie fishermen, who will provide their boats, equipment, tackle and expertise.

Help show these wounded warriors and veterans a great time and heartfelt appreciation of the Chatham County / Jordan Lake Community.
Here’s how:
• "Grassroots" support; no donation is too small -- it all adds up.
• Volunteers are needed.
• Assistance is needed in helping spread the word.
• Donations (products, services and cash) are needed for door prizes, to fund the Festival's t-shirt and purchase items for the dinner.
• Covered dishes are always a huge hit.
• Involve your family, friends, co-workers, clubs, service orgs, our youth, seniors -- EVERYONE.

Operation North State is all about showing support for North Carolina's deployed troops and veterans-in-needs. Lend a hand if you can; you will be in great company. This Facebook link provides details and an overview of the 1st Annual Jordan Lake Top Shelf Fishin' Festival:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.948780398515006.1073741852.1214679.01246264. Bells Baptist Church is the gathering location for this event and the dinner and awards event following the day of fishing.

Piano concert Sunday, October 4

Strobilus Art Series at Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church continues on Sunday, October 4, with pianist Deborah Coclanis performing a solo recital of three works spanning three centuries. The program starts at 4 p.m.

Coclanis earned a Bachelor of Music degree from the UNC School of the Arts and an M.A. in historical musicology from Columbia University. For 20 years she has been an active piano teacher and accompanist in Chapel Hill and Durham. In addition, she has developed innovative performances incorporating poetry, song, and instrumental music.

Admission to this performance is free with a suggested $10/person donation. A reception will follow the performance. Chapel in the Pines is located at 314 Great Ridge Parkway, Chapel Hill, NC, off Manns Chapel Road, just 1 mile west of US-15-501.

Celebrate 40 Years of CARE

On October 4th, CARE (Chatham Animal Rescue and Education) will celebrate 40 years of caring for the dogs and cats of Chatham County. There will be a birthday part from 4-8 PM at the Pittsboro Road House featuring the 2015 Internet Cat Video Festival. There will also be a raffle, a cupcake decorating contest, a cash bar and a food buffet—and more attractions yet to be announced.

For more information, contact CARE at www.chathamanimalrescue.org.

Recycle for a Cause -- Chatham Council on Aging

Can you help us make some needed funds at the Chatham Council on Aging? We have the opportunity to receive money for your old, used, new and no-longer-needed electronics and printer cartridges. We can accept the following for recycling: - Empty inkjets and laser toner cartridges - Cell phones/iPads/tablets/Small Electronics - New unused OEM inkjet &/or laser toner cartridges Please bring your items to the Eastern Chatham Senior Center at 365 NC Hwy. 87N (919.542.4512) or the Western Chatham Senior Center at 112 Village Lake Road, Siler City, NC 27344 919.742.3975 anytime between 8a.m. and 5 p.m., M-F. Tell your friends, family, churches and anyone else you can think of!

“After Hours” Mixer

Wake Up Wednesday is having their first after hours mixer Oct 6, 6-8 p.m. at the Pittsboro Roadhouse. All are welcome to network in a relaxed atmosphere. So bring a friend, grab a drink, free appetizers will be offered.

This two hour time frame gives you the opportunity to discuss and share ideas while learning about other local businesses. It is a relationship-building experience held in a relaxed setting that benefits you and your company through added contacts and resources. Stay for 20 minutes or enjoy the full two hours. Get out there! Give people the chance to get to know you so they will want to do business with you. Please RSVP. http://bit.ly/1VVGH77

What Really Happened in Benghazi

The Chatham County Republicans, in conjunction with the Fearrington Republican Club, are kicking off the fall season with an interesting program. The party will be hosting Kris Paronto, co-author of the best seller book, 13 HOURS: The Inside Account of What Really Happened In Benghazi, on Tuesday, October 6th, from 7:30 until 9:00 PM at the Fearrington Barn in Fearrington Village Center (off 15/501) in Pittsboro. Doors will open at 7 PM. General admission is $30 per person and $25 for Veterans. To reserve seats, please go to http://chathamncgop.com or call Brian at 919-533-9807. Kris will also be available to sign copies of 13 Hours and these can be purchased that evening for $30. Sponsoring opportunities are also available.